Essential Tours

Few moments in the ancient world are as vividly documented as the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79.  We know, with a specificity that no other lost city can match, what Pompeii looked like on the day it was destroyed and it is this intimacy, a sense of a world interrupted rather than simply destroyed, that makes the sites of the Bay of Naples so extraordinary. Greek colonists, native Samnites, the Romans (of course), Bourbon excavators and World War bombers have all left their marks on these sites. This tour sets out to explore that world in depth and in context, providing expert guidance with a well-thought-out itinerary, which includes free afternoons for independent exploration and a hotel in the modern town of Pompei for easy access to sites.

Four nights at the Kenzi Rose Hotel (or similar) with breakfast Three dinners & one lunch Visits as outlined in the itinerary Private air-conditioned coach travel Services of an expert Tour Manager

From the timeless beauty of Rome to some of Italy's most extraordinary gardens, this carefully curated tour brings together Renaissance masterpieces, romantic landscapes and remarkable private visits. Wander through the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa, where roses, flowering trees and crystal-clear streams weave amongst medieval ruins, explore the magnificent Papal Gardens at Castel Gandolfo and admire the elegant fountains and terraces of UNESCO-listed Villa d'Este. Along the way, discover one of Europe's finest Renaissance gardens at Castello Ruspoli, the celebrated Villa Lante and the world's largest collection of tree and herbaceous peonies at the Centro Botanico Moutan, complemented by time to explore the atmospheric medieval city of Viterbo.

Join our resident Irish expert and much-loved tour manager, Trevor Edwards, as he discovers the scenic and rugged west coast of Ireland. Home to a diverse range of colourful wildflowers and impressive geological features, this tour promises to be an experience to remember. The Burren, from the Irish bhoireann – a stony place – lies in the northwestern corner of County Clare. Over 300 square kilometres in extent, it is the largest area of karstic limestone in western Europe. At first glance, it presents a bleak appearance, but closer examination reveals the beautiful diversity of flora for which the whole region has become justly famous. The colourful exuberance and profusion of the wild flowers is simply captivating and, subject to the prevailing conditions, we can expect to see many interesting, different species.

David has explored every continent except Antarctica, discovering plants and gardens on over 70 trips accompanying groups of gardeners. He has more than 20 years’ experience writing and editing garden magazines and websites, including as Deputy and Associate Editor of BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine.